Warning: The VPN service included with the Microsoft Edge browser is not a genuine VPN service
Using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) for internet browsing is useful for encrypting your connection, which improves your privacy on public networks. It also allows you to bypass geographical restrictions that might prevent access to some platforms. While you can install apps, you can also use a browser with this feature built in, such as Microsoft Edge. But does it actually encrypt your data?
Let's talk about how the VPN in Microsoft Edge works. Although Microsoft advertised it as an alternative to paid VPNs, its functionality has raised some concerns, and some users have shared these issues on social media. It's always important to use these services responsibly.
A few days ago, specifically on February 11th, Microsoft announced a VPN service for secure browsing within its browser. This announcement was made via the social networking site X, as well as on the official Microsoft website. There, they explained that it is an alternative to paid VPN services and requires no additional installation; all that is needed is the browser.
Some users, like Suraj (@iAnonymous3000), have also questioned the security of Edge VPN on social media. They claim it's not a true VPN service but rather an HTTP proxy server based on Cloudflare's Privacy Proxy platform.
This Edge option allows data traffic to be routed only within the browser, while all other applications on your device remain exposed. This means that DNS queries, email programs, system updates, and any other background services could be leaked.
Furthermore, it's worth noting that the proxy feature is disabled by default for all types of browser traffic; it's set to optimized mode, meaning it only works on public Wi-Fi networks or when visiting HTTP websites. If you're browsing HTTPS pages, which are the most common these days, from your home network, the VPN service won't work until you change the settings.
Another aspect that raises privacy concerns about this option is the requirement to sign in to a Microsoft account to use the tool. This means your identity will be linked to the VPN, potentially compromising your browsing history, passwords, bookmarks, and other sensitive data.
Another problem is that this service lacks an "automatic kill switch" feature, which allows you to disconnect your device from the internet if the VPN fails, preventing DNS leaks, for example.
What should be used?
Therefore, we can say that the built-in VPN service in Microsoft Edge doesn't function as a true VPN. If you're looking for privacy while browsing the internet, it's important to keep in mind that it's not the best option, but you can use other alternatives that provide effective protection while browsing the web.
It's best to use a VPN service that can be installed as an app, as this encrypts your entire device connection. This way, not only will web browsing be encrypted, but any other app you use will also be automatically encrypted.
We recommend some effective options, such as NordVPN or NordPass. We tested them on the Houhou for Information blog, and they allow you to encrypt your connection, use different servers, and thus bypass any geographical restrictions.
In short, the built-in VPN service in Microsoft Edge is questionable. Its usefulness is limited, so to truly improve your privacy, it's recommended to use an application that functions as a real VPN.